Storage Unit Size Guide: How to Choose the Right One
Whether you are a college student looking to store a few things for a year or a homeowner who’s run out of space, a storage unit is probably the best solution. But how do you know what size storage unit is the best one for you?
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The cost of a storage unit directly correlates to its size. While it might seem easy to rent the largest unit possible, you may find yourself spending way more than needed to store your stuff. At the same time, a storage unit that is too small will leave you frustrated when it comes to moving day.
moveBuddha has experience with all of the best self-storage companies and we are here to help you pick the right storage unit size to fit your storage needs, as well as your budget.
Read on to learn all about the different sizes of storage units and narrow down your options to select the one that is best for your needs.
Storage unit sizes (with costs)
Self-storage units come in several different sizes, and the size will naturally affect storage unit prices. Below, we’ll dive into what you can fit in the most common storage unit sizes.
5 x 5 storage unit
In most cases, a 5 x 5-foot storage unit is the smallest unit offered, no matter which self-storage company you choose. With an area of 25 square feet and a cubic volume of 200 cubic feet, a 5 x 5 unit is basically the size of a small walk-in closet.
Ideal for seasonal items like holiday decorations, this unit can’t hold a lot of furniture. But if you’re just looking for a place to put your dresser, sports equipment, or a few large plastic tubs, it will work like a charm. Just keep in mind that if you stack your items to the ceiling, it might be a pain to pull out a single box later on.
The average cost of a 5 x 5 storage unit is between $70 and $80 per month.
5 x 10 storage unit
Slightly larger than a 5 x 5 unit, the 5 x 10-foot unit has an area of 50 square feet and a cubic volume of 400 square feet. More like a large walk-in closet, this size storage unit can accommodate small furniture (like patio furniture)and may be an option for those looking to store a studio apartment.
This size unit can hold a queen-sized mattress (pressed up against the wall), as well as large appliances like a washer and dryer. It is also ideal for those looking for somewhere to store a motorcycle or sports equipment like skis.
The average cost of a 5 x 10 storage unit is around $140–$150 per month.
10 x 10 storage unit
The next size up — and the last of the small storage units — is a 10×10-foot storage unit with an area of 100 square feet and a cubic volume of 800 square feet. About half the size of a single-car garage, this size of the unit will provide ample storage for a one-bedroom apartment or a small two-bedroom apartment — but be aware that you’ll have to stack everything tightly!
Because this unit is square in shape, you can easily store bulky furniture like a piano or a dining table and chairs. It will also hold most major appliances. While you won’t be able to store a compact car in this unit, you can store large motorized equipment like ATVs and motorcycles without issue.
The average cost of a 10 x 10 storage unit is $200–$210 per month.
10 x 15 storage unit
A 10 x 15-foot self-storage unit is considered to be a medium size unit with an area of 150 square feet and a cubic volume of 1,200 cubic feet. Only slightly smaller than a one-car garage, this unit is recommended for those with a two-bedroom apartment.
You’ll be able to store all your furniture (such as mattress sets), large appliances, and some boxes without trouble. It can also fit large pieces of furniture that won’t fit in the 10 x 10, such as a sectional couch, dining room sets, or a large refrigerator though it isn’t quite large enough for vehicle storage.
The average cost of a 10 x 15 storage unit is between $280 and $290 per month.
10 x 20 storage unit
A 10 x 20-foot storage unit is considered one of the large storage units, with an area of 200 square feet and a volume of 1,600 cubic feet. The 10 x 20 storage unit is the first size that is suitable for those with storage needs that include an entire household of items up to a three-bedroom house.
The 10 x 20 storage unit is the size of a one-car garage, and it can fit a small or midsize sedan. While this unit can be suitable for the storage of boats, you’ll want to measure to make sure yours fits. It can also fit up to 100 storage boxes as long as you skip the living room furniture.
The average cost of a 10 x 20 storage unit is $310–$320 per month.
10 x 25 storage unit
A 10 x 25-foot storage unit is another large unit with an area of 250 square feet and a cubic volume of 2,000 cubic feet. This storage unit is smaller than a two-car garage but can fit a four-bedroom home with ease.
The 10 x 25 storage unit can easily fit most recreational boats and many large items, as well as a medium-size vehicle. While some of these size units can accommodate a small RV, you’ll want to measure before booking.
For business customers, the 10 x 25 storage unit can be used as additional warehouse space for most companies.
The average cost of a 10 x 25 storage unit is $390–$400 per month.
10 x 30 storage unit
At most self-storage facilities, the 10 x 30-foot storage unit is the largest available. With an area of 300 square feet and a volume of 2,400 cubic feet, this unit is almost the size of a two-car garage (though the layout is different) and can fit up to a five-bedroom house.
The 10 x 30 storage unit is most often chosen to store a camper or RV. It is also ideal for those who would like to store their entire home, as well as a small sedan.
Because they can accommodate so much, they are commonly used by those in the military who are headed for deployment and are often considered for business storage.
The average cost of a 10 x 30 storage unit is $570–$580 per month.
20 x 20 storage unit
The largest storage solution on the market is the 20 x 20-foot unit, and it isn’t available at all storage facilities. With an area of 400 square feet, and a cubic volume of 3200 cubic feet, there is almost nothing that won’t fit in this unit.
This unit is designed for multiple vehicles, large farm equipment, or a large home of up to six bedrooms. Because this unit can house multiple pieces of equipment and larger items, it is frequently used by commercial businesses that require some extra storage space.
The average cost of a 20 x 20 storage unit is $690–$700 per month.
Comparing storage unit sizes
Still unsure which storage unit size is the right one for you? Check out this chart to compare different storage unit sizes side by side.
| Storage unit size | Best for | Average monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| 5 x 5 | Seasonal décor Hobby equipment | $70–$80 |
| 5 x 10 | Mattresses 1-2 appliances Contents of a studio apartment | $140–$150 |
| 10 x 10 | Grand piano ATVs Contents of a small two-bedroom apartment | $200–$210 |
| 10 x 15 | Two-bedroom apartment with large furniture and several major appliances | $280–$290 |
| 10 x 20 | Small to midsize sedans Contents of a three-bedroom house | $310–$320 |
| 10 x 25 | Vehicles Small RVs Contents of a four-bedroom house | $390–$400 |
| 10 x 30 | RV/camper Contents of a four-bedroom house with a small vehicle | $570–$580 |
| 20 x 20 | Multiple vehicles Farm equipment Contents of a six-bedroom house | $690–$700 |
What size storage unit do I need?
Choosing the right size storage unit can be a challenge, here are some tips and tricks for finding the right size storage unit for your belongings:
- Take inventory. Make a list of all the larger pieces of furniture you have on hand, as well as the number of boxes you intend to store. We recommend estimating high.
- Use a free quote tool. If your storage needs are part of a larger move, use the moveBuddha moving cost calculator to help determine the cost or estimate the total size of your belongings.
- Measure your largest item. Most moves include several boxes and smaller items like lamps and nightstands. To ensure you get the right size unit, measure your largest items. As long as they can fit in the unit, you can stack the smaller stuff in later.
- Covert weight to volume. If you are given an estimate which only displays weight, divide this number by six to get the associated cubic feet.
- Always round up. No matter how good you are at estimating the cubic volume of your stuff, round up to ensure you always have extra space and never too little.
- Check vehicle and boat unit sizes. If you are planning to store any sort of vehicle, choose a 10 x 20 unit or larger. Those with an RV should always choose a 10 x 30 unit. Boats vary widely in size, but never choose a unit smaller than 10 x 20 for a boat (we recommend going larger). Read our guide on how to store an RV here.
- Measure vehicles. Those storing something other than a midsize sedan should always measure their vehicle before choosing a storage unit.
- Consider climate-controlled storage. Remember, being exposed to the heat and cold of outdoor accessible storage can damage some items. As long as you don’t need a drive-up unit for a car, consider choosing climate-controlled storage to help protect your possessions.
Related: Items You Shouldn’t Keep In A Storage Unit
FAQs about storage unit sizes
What is the most popular storage unit size?
The most popular storage unit size is the 10 x 10 storage unit, which has 800 square feet. With space for seasonal decorations, major appliances, and more, this size unit will meet most basic storage needs, unless you are storing your entire household or a vehicle.
How many bedrooms can fit in a 10×10 storage unit?
A 10 x 10 storage unit can accommodate the items in a one-bedroom home easily. However, with some expert packing, you may find a 10 x 10 unit is spacious enough to store the items from a two-bedroom apartment.
How do I calculate how much storage space I need?
The easiest way to calculate how much storage you need is by asking a moving company for an estimate. If they only provide you an estimate in weight, divide this number by six to get a cubic-foot estimate. We also recommend measuring your largest item to ensure it will fit in your desired unit size.
What’s the best way to organize a storage unit?
The best way to organize a storage unit is by purchasing vertical shelving like bookshelves. This will allow you to fill the storage unit to the brim while still making it easy to access your items when you need them.
What does “climate control” mean?
Climate-controlled storage units are storage lockers within a building that has heating, air conditioning, and humidity control. These units are often kept at the same temperature as your home, ensuring the items within aren’t damaged by the heat, cold, or moisture.
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